Mandatory evacuations in Mendocino County as 2 wildfires threaten homes
MENDOCINO COUNTY, Calif. (KTVU) - Two wildfires burning in Mendocino County injured two firefighters and have prompted mandatory evacuations. Multiple structures are threatened according to CalFire.
The "Ranch Fire" was first reported around 1:30 p.m. Friday in the area of Highway 20 near the 7000 block. At about 1:48 p.m. Mendocino County Sheriff units were also contacted to assist with the report of a fire in the 6800 block of Old River Road near Hopland. This fire is being referred to as the "River Fire."
The River Fire has burned 5,600 acres and is 0% contained. Mandatory evacuations are in place from the 8000 block of River Road, south to Highway 175, and from the Russian River, east to to the Lake County Line. This includes the Hopland Band of Pomo Indians.
Residents in the area south of Hwy 175, east of Old River Road to highway 101 and east to Old Toll Rd and Ranch Rd area are under an evacuation warning.
The Ranch Fire has burned 2,700 acres and is 0% contained. The fire is moving east towards Lake County. Evacuation warnings are in effect for Highway 20 from the 6000 block to the Lake County line and into the Blue Lakes area.
Residents are urged to remain aware of their surroundings and use their best judgment. If the fire begins to approach their location they should evacuate to a safe location.
The Mendocino County Health and Human Services Agency is opening a shelter at Mendocino College. The shelter will be located at the Mendocino College Dance Room at 1000 Hensley Creek Road in Ukiah.
The J arena located at 4800 Burke Hill Road, Ukiah, is accepting animals however no horses. The Redwood Riders Arena located at 8300 East Road in Redwood Valley is accepting horses. Small animals will be accepted at the Mendocino County Animal Shelter.
MANDATORY EVACUATION:
- 8000 block of River Road, South to the intersection of Highway 175 from the Russian River east to the Ridge above Highway 175, within the North South points. These evacuations also include all driveways and homes located between the North South Points
EVACUATION ADVISORIES:
- Blue Lakes
- Bahcelor Valley
- Witter Springs
- North Scotts Valley Road from the 7000 block to Highway 20
- Highway 20 from the 6000 block to the lake county line and into the blue lakes area
EVACUATION CENTERS:
- Mendocino College Dance Room at 1000 Hensley Creek Road, Ukiah